Lung diseases

Collapsed lung

09/22/2004

Question:

How long does it take to recover from a collapsed lung. I am in construction work, when can I return to work?

Answer:

No time off work is required for the collapsed lung if no operation was required to treat the lung. In cases where the pneumothorax (collapsed lung) requires no treatment or just drainage with a tube then there is no evidence that returning to work increases the risk for a second collapse. You should be able to return to work now. If an operation was required then your surgeon will release you to return to work most often at 2 weeks after the operation.

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